The Connor Bedard era has officially started for the Chicago Blackhawks, as the team announced the 2023 NHL draft No. 1 pick signed his entry-level contract Monday.
Bedard's three-year contract was announced on the center's 18th birthday. It carries a $950,000 salary cap hit.
The player from North Vancouver, British Columbia, has been called a generational talent thanks to his offensive skills, in particular his shooting ability. Bedard was the most-hyped prospect since Connor McDavid was drafted first overall by the Edmonton Oilers in 2015.
Chicago earned the right to select Bedard after winning the NHL draft lottery, despite having only the third-best odds to earn the No.